I know this is a constant headache for so many of us sewers. My iron has just started leaking after just a few months of use, so now I am looking around for good reliable info, and knew this would be the best resource!

I and my husband both use the iron daily- he irons his own work shirts and I sew- so it is constantly in use. I know he doesn't want to hassle with a gravity feed steam iron (sigh...) so that is out. I had a Rowenta that lasted for seven years with this kind of use, and am considering buying the same style, but like the others it sounds kind of prone to leaks also. This other iron that just went is also a Rowenta, but really broke down way too soon. I am going to get in touch with the company today, but I need something in case I might have to send it to a repair place.

Thanks for any input. I sure wish this was a tool that wasn't so fickle.

Wish I could recommend one but my fave iron is a Rowenta, and it sounds like you have not had good luck lately with Rowenta. Everyone seems to have a different experience with each brand.
Could you get a basic iron for hubby to use and then get yourself the gravity feed one you desire?
I don't think I would want my hubby using my iron so it's good he is not inclined to iron.
Hit post too fast: Good luck with your search and let us know what you decide to get. -- Edited on 1/10/13 4:34 PM --

I LOVE my Rowenta! Got it almost 2 years ago when QVC was featuring them. Mine was around 60-odd dollars.
It has the automatic shut-off which is essential to me, because I can be forgetful when I get busy. Also, I have two small dogs that I love more than I can say and I want to be sure they stay safe at all times.
The iron puts out lots of steam, heats up VERY fast and does not leak.
It is the best iron I've ever used.

I always save the box the iron comes in and the receipt. Seems my irons always die in under 2 years, and the one I have has a 2 year warranty. I just box it up and take it back to the store and get a replacement. If they are going to give a 2 year warranty by golly I'm going to take them up on it. BTW-I use a Black and Decker Digital Advantage.

I have an Oliso professional iron for over a year now. I really like using it as a horizontal iron and it has a 30 minutes auto shut off so when I am sewing it is not constantly off as I go back and forth. It has a long cord also which I like. It is the most expensive iron I have ever bought but I never had good luck with Rowentas so I figured I would give it a try. I am hoping it lasts for years but time will tell.

I've splurged three times on a "good" (read" expensive") iron. Each time was a mistake. I bought the Oliso 1600 twice. Each time the auto lift feature stopped working after less than two weeks. I also owned a Rowenta which began to spit after a few months. I currently have a $35 Shark that has worked for years.

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